How to Change Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10: A Step-by-Step Guide

Changing Windows 11 to look like Windows 10 might seem daunting, but it’s actually pretty simple. You’ll just need to tweak a few settings here and there. Follow these steps, and you’ll have your computer looking like your familiar Windows 10 in no time.

How to Change Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10

Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you make your Windows 11 computer look and feel like Windows 10. You’ll be changing the Start Menu, Taskbar, File Explorer, and some other visual elements to recreate that classic Windows 10 look.

Step 1: Change the Start Menu

To change the Start Menu, you’ll need to use a Start Menu replacement tool like "Open-Shell."

Download and install Open-Shell from their official website. Open the app and configure it to mimic the Windows 10 Start Menu layout.

Step 2: Adjust the Taskbar

Step 2 involves moving the Taskbar icons to the left side of the screen.

Right-click on the Taskbar, select "Taskbar settings," and under "Taskbar behaviors," choose "Left" for "Taskbar alignment."

Step 3: Revert File Explorer to Classic Look

You’ll need to tweak some registry settings to get the old File Explorer look back.

Press Win + R, type "regedit" and navigate to HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINESOFTWAREMicrosoftWindowsCurrentVersionShell Extensions. Create a new key if it doesn’t exist and name it "Blocked." Inside the Blocked key, create a new String Value named {e2bf9676-5f8f-435c-97eb-11607a5bedf7}.

Step 4: Modify System Icons

To get back the Windows 10 system icons, you have to change the icons manually.

Right-click on the desktop, select "Personalize," then go to "Themes" and select "Desktop icon settings." Change each icon to resemble those used in Windows 10.

Step 5: Install a Windows 10 Theme

Installing a Windows 10 theme can bring back the look and feel of Windows 10.

Go to the Microsoft Store and search for a Windows 10 theme. Download and apply it to your system.

After completing these steps, your Windows 11 system should now closely resemble Windows 10. You’ll notice the familiar Start Menu, Taskbar, File Explorer, and system icons that you used to see in Windows 10.

Tips for Changing Windows 11 to Look Like Windows 10

• Backup Settings: Always create a restore point before making significant changes to your system.
• Use Reliable Tools: Only download tools from trusted sources to avoid malware.
• Keep Software Updated: Ensure any third-party tools you use are compatible with the latest version of Windows 11.
• Customize Further: Feel free to tweak additional settings like accent colors and fonts for a more personalized touch.
• Monitor Performance: Keep an eye on system performance after making changes to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will these changes affect system performance?

Generally, these visual changes won’t impact system performance significantly. However, always monitor your system after making changes to ensure it runs smoothly.

Can I revert to the original Windows 11 look?

Yes, simply undo the changes or use a system restore point to revert to the original Windows 11 look.

Are these changes permanent?

No, all changes can be reverted if you decide to go back to the Windows 11 interface.

Is it safe to modify the registry?

Modifying the registry can be risky. Always back up the registry before making changes to avoid potential issues.

Can I use other tools for the Start Menu replacement?

Yes, there are several tools available. Open-Shell is one option, but you can explore other tools like StartIsBack or Start11.

Summary

1. Download and install Open-Shell.
2. Move the Taskbar icons to the left.
3. Modify the registry for File Explorer.
4. Change system icons manually.
5. Download and apply a Windows 10 theme.

Conclusion

Changing Windows 11 to look like Windows 10 is a fairly straightforward process that can make your new operating system feel familiar and comfortable again. By following the steps outlined above, you can bring back the classic look of Windows 10, from the Start Menu to the Taskbar, and even the system icons and File Explorer.

Remember, customizing your OS is all about personal preference. Don’t be afraid to experiment a bit to find what works best for you. However, always take precautions like creating backups before making significant changes to your system. This way, you can easily revert back if something doesn’t go as planned.

For further tweaks and tips, consider exploring online forums and communities dedicated to Windows customization. There’s a treasure trove of information available from users who have tried and tested various methods.

Happy customizing! If you have any questions or run into any issues, don’t hesitate to seek help or consult additional resources.